Children Experiencing Bullying Can Develop Mental Health Issues and Possibly Contemplate Suicide
A recent study published in PLOS ONE has shed light on the significant impact of bullying on the mental health of children and teenagers. The study, which included over 70,000 responses from the 2018 Iowa Youth Survey, found that bullying, particularly bullying based on a person's sexual orientation, gender identity, or around hurtful sexual comments, is consistently correlated with teens' feelings of depression, mental distress, and acts of attempted suicide.
Lisa Lawless, PhD, a clinical psychotherapist and mother of an LGBTQ+ son, emphasized the importance of compassionate listening, getting educated and connected to the LGBT+ community, and creating a safe and loving environment for children. She highlighted the impact of bullying on a child's self-worth and identity.
Jillian Amodio, a social worker and founder of Moms for Mental Health, pointed out the amplified impact of cyberbullying due to the prevalence of social media. She noted that youth who are bullied for gender or sexual identity may have fewer support resources compared to those bullied for religion.
Bullying based on a person's sexual orientation, gender identity, or around hurtful sexual comments is not the only form of bullying that poses a threat to young people's mental health. Cyberbullying, social bullying, and race-based bullying were also significantly correlated to suicide attempts and mental anguish, according to the study.
Parents play a crucial role in identifying and addressing signs of depression and mental distress in their kids. Lisa Pion-Berlin, PhD, a clinical hypnotherapist and chief executive officer of Parents Anonymous, suggested staying alert for signs such as a lack in routine or not talking to family members. She also recommended calling the National Parent Helpline at 855-427-2736 for support.
Dr. Faisal Tai, a psychiatrist and chief executive officer of PsychPlus, suggested nurturing a positive family climate, teaching emotional and interpersonal skills, and building relationships with school personnel as ways to reduce the chances of a child being bullied.
Organizations offering mental health and suicide prevention programs in U.S. schools, communities, and workplaces include the U.S. Coast Guard's Suicide Prevention Program, American Hospital Association with resources for healthcare systems, Lines for Life supporting community access through the 988 crisis number, and university programs like University Health Services that provide training and support on campuses.
Suicide is a significant issue among people aged 15 to 24 in the U.S., and bullying plays a role in this. According to the study, nearly one in three young people in the United States may experience bullying. The statistics are particularly alarming for LGBTQ+ students, with 50% of LGBTQ+ students having seriously considered suicide versus 14% of heterosexual students.
The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for schools, communities, and families to take action against bullying and provide support for young people struggling with their mental health. By fostering a culture of compassion, education, and support, we can help create a safer and healthier environment for all young people.
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